Cook | Part-Time | Benchmark International Arena
Company : SPECTRA
Location : Tampa, FL, 33602
Job Type : Part Time
Date Posted : 7 January 2026
Oak View Group
Oak View Group is the global leader in venue development, management, and premium hospitality services for the live event industry. Offering an unmatched, 360-degree solution set for a collection of world-class owned venues and a client roster that includes the most influential, highest attended arenas, convention centers, music festivals, performing arts centers, and cultural institutions on the planet.
Position Summary
Step into the spotlight behind the scenes as a Cook, where you're eager to begin you culinary journey. Benchmark Arena is a fast-paced, high-energy environment, where you’ll be responsible for preparing ingredients, mastering the culinary basics, and stepping onto the line during service as needed.
This role will pay an hourly rate of $17.00-$17.50.
Benefits for Part-Time roles: 401(k) savings plan and 401(k) matching.
EVERGREEN ROLE: Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis; there is no application deadline
About the Venue
From 2011-2013, Benchmark International Arena had more than $62 million in improvements that have clearly revolutionized the industry and made it the premier entertainment venue in the state of Florida.
With a wide array of venues spread throughout the United States, it can be difficult to find one that distinguishes itself from the others. That is not the case with the renovated Benchmark International Arena, Florida’s premier entertainment venue and home of the three-time Stanley Cup champion, Tampa Bay Lightning.
Boasting unique features like lightning-throwing Tesla coils, the 11,000 square-foot Budweiser Biergarten with incredible views of the city and a massive five-manual, 105-rank digital pipe organ, Benchmark International Arena consistently ranks among the very best venues in the United States. The best part? This is only the beginning.
Responsibilities
Perform essential prep tasks such as chopping, portioning, marinating, and other food preparation duties
Assist with basic dish assembly, garnishing, and plating
Support line cooks and respond promptly to kitchen needs during service hours
- Maintain portion control and serving temperatures of all products served in the concession stand.
- Responsible for cleaning, stocking and restocking workstations and displays.
- Ensure that all work areas and equipment are clean, food products are properly stored, utensils are clean and put away and floor is swept and mopped at end of shift.
- Maintains sanitation, health and safety standards in work areas.
- Must show demonstrated ability to meet the company standard for excellent attendance.
Qualifications
1-2 years of kitchen or prep experience, or recent graduate of a culinary program
Positive attitude with a strong work ethic and eagerness to learn
Receptive to feedback and able to follow instructions
Ability to work well in a team-oriented, fast-paced, event-driven environment.
Possess a valid food handling certificate if required by state and federal regulations
Strengthened by our Differences. United to Make a Difference
At OVG, we understand that to continue positively disrupting the sports and live entertainment industry, we need a diverse team to help us do it. We also believe that inclusivity drives innovation, strengthens our people, improves our service, and raises our excellence. Our success is rooted in creating environments that reflect and celebrate the diverse communities in which we operate and serve, and this is the reason we are committed to amplifying voices from all different backgrounds.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Oak View Group is committed to equal employment opportunity. We will not discriminate against employees or applicants for employment on any legally recognized basis (“protected class”) including, but not limited to veteran status, uniform service member status, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information or any other protected class under federal, state, or local law.
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Frequently asked questions
Benchmark International Arena stands out in Tampa with its dynamic event environment and unique features like the Budweiser Biergarten. Part-time cooks here experience fast-paced kitchen operations tied to major live events, offering more variety and excitement than typical restaurant roles in the city.
Success at SPECTRA’s arena requires adaptability to high-volume food prep, quick response during service, and teamwork under pressure. Familiarity with portion control, sanitation standards, and a willingness to learn culinary basics are key for part-time cooks in this fast-paced setting.
Local employers, including Benchmark International Arena, often prefer candidates with valid food handling certifications compliant with Florida regulations. This credential ensures knowledge of health standards critical in Tampa’s hospitality and event venues.
Absolutely, entry-level cooks or recent culinary program graduates find Benchmark Arena’s part-time role a great starting point. The position offers hands-on experience with prep work and line cooking in a prestigious, fast-paced environment, perfect for building skills.
Yes, part-time cooks enjoy access to benefits like a 401(k) savings plan with matching contributions. This is relatively rare for part-time roles and adds financial planning advantages beyond the competitive hourly wage.
Hourly wages for part-time cooks at Benchmark International Arena range from $17.00 to $17.50. This rate aligns well with Tampa’s market for similar hospitality positions, reflecting the venue’s premium status and operational demands.
SPECTRA emphasizes diversity and inclusivity, creating a collaborative and supportive workplace. Cooks benefit from a culture valuing innovation and community, which fosters teamwork and professional growth in Tampa’s live entertainment scene.
High guest volume and rapid service pace can be demanding. Preparing by honing multitasking, maintaining sanitation rigor, and mastering basic culinary techniques helps cooks manage pressure effectively during Tampa’s bustling event schedules.
Tampa’s hospitality sector is growing, with steady demand for cooks. Benchmark International Arena is a sought-after employer due to its prestige and benefits, making it competitive but attractive for candidates aiming at part-time culinary roles.
Daily tasks include prepping ingredients like chopping and marinating, assisting with dish assembly, maintaining cleanliness, and supporting service lines. These duties ensure smooth kitchen operations in a fast-paced, event-driven Tampa venue.